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QuizTraffic rulesSouth Africa

Test your knowledge with our multiple-choice quiz. Learn from each answer and improve your understanding of the traffic rules and road signs of South Africa.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
South Africa
True/false 17 South Africa 23 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 590
Why should you follow the manufacturer's service schedule?

201. Why should you follow the manufacturer's service schedule?

It guarantees that no faults will develop between services.
It allows vehicle problems to be ignored until the next service.
It prevents normal wear on important vehicle components.
✓ Regular servicing can identify wear and maintain safety and reliability.

Scheduled servicing helps ensure that brakes, tyres, fluids, filters, steering, suspension, and other important systems are checked and maintained before faults become more serious.

Vehicle maintenance following a servicing schedule
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a long journey?

202. What should you check before starting a long journey?

Only the lights if you plan to drive at night.
Only the dashboard warning lights.
Nothing if the vehicle was recently serviced.
✓ Tyres, lights, fluids, windows, mirrors, and essential equipment.

A brief vehicle check can reveal tyre damage, low fluid levels, faulty lights, or visibility problems before they cause danger. Also confirm that any spare wheel or tyre-repair equipment is available and usable.

Vehicle safety checks before a long journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which side do people drive on in South Africa?

203. Which side do people drive on in South Africa?

✓ Left-hand side.
Right-hand side.

Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road in South Africa.

Road traffic and the designated driving side
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can you check that a manual gearbox is in neutral?

204. How can you check that a manual gearbox is in neutral?

✓ Move the gear lever gently from side to side.
Turn the steering wheel.
Press the accelerator pedal.
Pull up the parking brake.

When a manual gearbox is in neutral, the gear lever can normally be moved freely from side to side across the centre of the gear pattern. Check that neutral is selected before starting the engine when appropriate.

Checking neutral with a manual gear lever
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

205. What should you do at a railway crossing when the barriers are closing?

Cross quickly if you cannot see a train.
Stop only when the barriers are fully lowered.
✓ Stop and wait until the barriers are completely open.
Continue if the barriers are not fully closed.

Never enter a railway crossing when barriers are closing or warning signals are active. Stop and wait until it is safe.

Barriers closing at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

206. What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

Only the tyres if the journey is long.
Only the brakes and lights.
Nothing if the motorcycle was recently serviced.
✓ Tyres, brakes, lights, steering, and controls.

Before riding, carry out a basic safety check. Check the tyres, brakes, lights, steering and controls, and inspect the drive chain, belt or other drive components where applicable. Finding a problem before setting off can prevent a breakdown or loss of control.

Checking a motorcycle before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why must a roof load be securely attached?

207. Why must a roof load be securely attached?

Because light roof loads cannot be affected by the wind.
✓ It could shift or fall and create a serious hazard.
To stop the roof rack from increasing fuel consumption.
To keep the vehicle within its normal height.

A roof load is exposed to strong airflow and movement. It must be restrained correctly and kept within the permitted limits.

Load secured to a vehicle's roof
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you normally do before starting an automatic vehicle?

208. What should you normally do before starting an automatic vehicle?

Select D and press the accelerator.
✓ Select P or N and press the brake pedal.
Select R and release the parking brake.
Leave the selector between two positions.

Before starting an automatic vehicle, make sure P (Park) or N (Neutral) is selected and press the brake pedal. Many automatic vehicles will only allow the engine to start when these conditions are met.

Gear selector and brake before starting an automatic vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally hold the steering wheel while driving?

209. How should you normally hold the steering wheel while driving?

✓ With both hands in a balanced position.
With one hand resting on the gear lever.
With one hand at the top of the wheel.
With both hands together at the bottom.

Hold the steering wheel with both hands in a balanced position so that you can steer smoothly and react quickly. A position around nine and three o'clock generally provides good control.

Driver holding the steering wheel with both hands
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when traffic is merging from another lane?

210. What should you do when traffic is merging from another lane?

✓ Adjust your speed and leave space when safe.
Move closer to the vehicle ahead to keep your lane clear.
Move into another lane without checking around you.
Maintain your speed and expect them to merge behind you.

When traffic merges, good observation and speed control help vehicles join safely without sudden braking or conflict.

Vehicle merging from an adjacent lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is a larger following distance needed at motorway speeds?

211. Why is a larger following distance needed at motorway speeds?

✓ You need more distance to react and stop safely.
It prevents the tyres from becoming too warm.
It keeps the engine from working too hard.
It reduces the effect of crosswinds.

At higher speeds, you travel farther during your reaction time and need more distance to brake. A larger gap gives you more time and space to stop safely.

Following distance between vehicles on a motorway
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a curve with poor visibility?

212. What should you do when approaching a curve with poor visibility?

Maintain your speed if the road ahead appears clear.
✓ Slow down and stay in your lane.
Move slightly toward the centre for a better view.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely through the curve.

A curve can hide oncoming traffic, obstacles, cyclists, or pedestrians. Reduce speed and keep a safe position.

Road bend with a restricted view ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

213. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Brake-system warning.
✓ Low tyre pressure.
Engine-management warning.
Electronic stability control.

This symbol indicates that one or more tyres may have low pressure. Check the tyre pressures and inspect the tyres for damage or a puncture.

Tyre-pressure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you have taken drugs that may impair your driving?

214. What should you do if you have taken drugs that may impair your driving?

Wait until you feel more confident.
✓ Do not drive.
Drink coffee before driving.
Drive only on familiar roads.

Drugs can impair judgement, coordination, concentration, and reaction time. Their effects can be unpredictable and may continue after you feel that the main effects have passed. Do not drive while impaired.

Drug impairment and the decision not to drive
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which road markings should you follow through roadworks?

215. Which road markings should you follow through roadworks?

Follow the old permanent markings if they are still visible.
Use the markings intended for construction vehicles.
✓ The temporary markings that show the current traffic route.
Use whichever markings give you the shortest route.

Temporary road markings may replace the normal lane layout during roadworks. Follow the markings and signs that currently guide traffic.

Temporary road markings through a roadworks area
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

216. Why should you leave extra following distance when towing?

To prevent the trailer from blocking your view.
To keep the trailer from moving side to side.
✓ Your vehicle combination may take longer to stop.
To make the trailer easier to steer.

Towing adds weight and can increase stopping distance. Extra space gives you more time to react and brake smoothly.

Vehicle towing a trailer behind other traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you increase your following distance on wet roads?

217. Why should you increase your following distance on wet roads?

✓ Because braking distances are longer.
Because vehicles ahead have priority in rain.
Because wet roads make the speedometer less accurate.
Because tyres need more space to warm up.

Water reduces grip between the tyres and the road, so it takes longer to slow down or stop safely.

Following distance between vehicles on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

218. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Electric window control.
✓ Exterior mirror adjustment.
Seat adjustment.
Mirror folding.

This control adjusts the vehicle's exterior mirrors. The driver normally selects the left or right mirror and then moves the control to change its angle.

Control for adjusting the exterior mirrors
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the seat-belt retractor?

219. What is the purpose of the seat-belt retractor?

To adjust the seat height.
✓ To take up slack and lock the belt when necessary.
To tighten the parking brake.
To release the seat belt from the buckle.

The seat-belt retractor takes up slack and helps keep the belt properly positioned against the body. It allows normal movement but can lock during sudden braking, rapid belt movement or a collision.

Seat-belt webbing and retracting mechanism
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which pedal is used to slow down or stop the vehicle?

220. Which pedal is used to slow down or stop the vehicle?

The clutch pedal.
The footrest.
✓ The brake pedal.
The accelerator pedal.

The brake pedal is used to reduce the vehicle's speed or bring it to a stop. In a manual vehicle, it is the middle pedal.

Brake pedal in the driver's footwell
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

221. What should you do if a motorcycle helmet visor is badly scratched?

✓ Replace it before riding.
Ride with the visor raised.
Keep using it if the weather is dry.
Use it only during daylight.

A badly scratched or damaged visor can reduce or distort your view, especially in bright sunlight or at night. Replace a visor that no longer provides a clear, safe view and follow the helmet manufacturer's instructions.

Scratched visor on a motorcycle helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid unnecessary lane changes in roadworks?

222. Why should you avoid unnecessary lane changes in roadworks?

Drivers should always use the lane with fewer vehicles.
Temporary lanes are designed for frequent lane changes.
✓ Narrow lanes and changing layouts increase the risk of collision.
Changing lanes helps traffic move faster through roadworks.

Frequent lane changes create additional risk where space is limited and drivers are already adapting to temporary layouts.

Vehicles travelling through restricted roadworks lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

223. How should you normally apply the brake pedal for a smooth stop?

✓ Apply pressure progressively.
Use the parking brake instead.
Press it as hard as possible immediately.
Pump the pedal repeatedly.

For normal braking, apply the brake pedal progressively and smoothly. As the vehicle comes to a stop, easing the pressure slightly can help avoid a sudden jerk.

Progressive brake-pedal pressure for a smooth stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

224. Which selector position is used when parking the vehicle?

N (Neutral).
R (Reverse).
✓ P (Park).
D (Drive).

Select P (Park) when parking an automatic vehicle. Park locks the transmission, but the parking brake should also be applied to secure the vehicle.

Automatic gear selector with P, R, N and D positions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

225. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Rear fog lights.
Sidelights.
Front fog lights.
✓ Main beam.

This symbol indicates that the main beam headlights are switched on. Main beam illuminates the road farther ahead but can dazzle other road users, so it should be changed to dipped headlights when necessary.

Main-beam headlight symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the general motorway speed limit for cars in South Africa?

226. What is the general motorway speed limit for cars in South Africa?

110 km/h.
130 km/h.
Other speed limit.
✓ 120 km/h.

The general motorway speed limit for cars in South Africa is 120 km/h, unless signs indicate otherwise.

Motorway speed limits for cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if steam begins coming from underneath the bonnet?

227. What should you do if steam begins coming from underneath the bonnet?

Keep the engine running so the cooling system keeps working.
Continue driving slowly until the steam stops.
Pour cold water over the engine immediately.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and keep clear until it has cooled.

Steam can indicate an overheated and pressurised cooling system. Do not remove the coolant cap while the system is hot.

Steam rising from underneath a vehicle's bonnet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

228. What should you do if the charging-system warning light comes on?

Increase engine speed until the warning light goes out.
Switch on more electrical systems to test the battery.
✓ Reduce electrical use, stop safely, and seek assistance.
Restart the engine repeatedly to reset the warning.

The alternator or charging system may have failed. The vehicle may stop once the remaining battery charge is exhausted.

Charging-system warning illuminated on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you look well ahead while driving?

229. Why should you look well ahead while driving?

To maintain the same speed in every situation.
To avoid checking your mirrors as often.
✓ To identify developing hazards early and gain more time to react.
To concentrate only on traffic in your lane.

Looking well ahead helps you identify developing hazards early, such as slowing traffic, pedestrians, junctions, or changing road conditions. Earlier detection gives you more time to assess the situation and respond smoothly and safely.

Driver observing the road and traffic ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the main emergency number in South Africa?

230. What is the main emergency number in South Africa?

123.
000.
111.
✓ 112.

The main emergency number in South Africa is 112.

112 emergency telephone number
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

231. What does the AUTO setting on the lighting control do?

It switches on the front fog lights.
It flashes the headlights automatically.
✓ It switches the headlights on or off automatically when needed.
It keeps the main beam switched on.

The AUTO lighting setting allows the vehicle to switch its exterior lights on or off automatically according to ambient light conditions. The driver remains responsible for ensuring that the correct lights are being used.

AUTO setting on the vehicle's lighting control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you adjust the seat and mirrors correctly before driving?

232. Why should you adjust the seat and mirrors correctly before driving?

To reduce the vehicle's stopping distance.
✓ To maintain good control and a clear view around the vehicle.
To make the steering and pedals easier to operate.
To make blind spots disappear completely.

A correct driving position helps you operate the pedals and steering comfortably and maintain proper control. Correctly adjusted mirrors improve your view around the vehicle and help reduce blind spots. Adjust both before starting your journey.

Adjusting the driving position and mirrors before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid placing objects on or over an airbag cover?

233. Why should you avoid placing objects on or over an airbag cover?

They could prevent the seat belt from locking.
They could cause the airbag warning light to stay on.
✓ They could interfere with deployment and become dangerous projectiles.
They could make the airbag deploy too slowly.

Do not place or attach objects over an airbag cover or in an airbag's deployment area. They may interfere with the airbag as it inflates and could be thrown towards occupants when the airbag deploys.

Objects placed over a vehicle's airbag cover
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when joining a motorway from an entry lane?

234. What should you do when joining a motorway from an entry lane?

✓ Match your speed, check around you, and merge into a safe gap.
Stop at the end of the entry lane and wait for a large gap.
Enter at a low speed and let motorway traffic adjust.
Merge as soon as the entry lane begins.

Use the entry lane to build a suitable speed, check carefully, signal, and merge only when it is safe.

Vehicle joining a motorway from an entry lane
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

235. What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

✓ Stay calm and avoid creating more danger.
Keep your course and expect them to correct their mistake.
Drive closer so they notice your presence.
Immediately overtake them to get past the situation.

Road users can make mistakes. Staying calm and reacting safely helps prevent crashes.

Driver responding to another road user's mistake
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the safest way to cross the road with a child?

236. What is the safest way to cross the road with a child?

Ask them to decide when it is safe to cross.
Cross separately so everyone has more space.
✓ Hold their hand and keep them close.
Let them walk slightly ahead of you.

Children can be unpredictable near traffic. Keep them close and guide them safely across the road.

Adult holding a child's hand while crossing the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

237. What should you do if a red warning light appears with an unusual noise?

Wait until the next service to have it checked.
Stop only if another warning light appears.
Ignore the noise if the warning light later goes out.
✓ Stop safely, switch off the engine, and seek assistance.

A red warning combined with an unusual noise may indicate a serious fault. Continuing could cause damage or loss of control.

Red dashboard warning requiring the driver's attention
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Can you assume that you are safe to drive the morning after drinking?

238. Can you assume that you are safe to drive the morning after drinking?

Yes, if you only need to drive a short distance.
Yes, if you feel completely sober.
Yes, if you eat breakfast before driving.
✓ No, alcohol may still remain in your body.

The body needs time to process alcohol. Sleeping, eating, showering, or drinking coffee does not instantly remove it.

Fitness to drive the morning after drinking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with a manual parking brake before driving away?

239. What should you do with a manual parking brake before driving away?

Apply it only after moving off.
Pull it up further.
✓ Release it fully.
Leave it partly applied.

The manual parking brake should be released fully before driving away. Driving with it partly applied can cause unnecessary brake wear and overheating.

Releasing a manual handbrake before driving away
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you avoid if your vehicle loses grip on a wet road?

240. What should you avoid if your vehicle loses grip on a wet road?

Looking ahead and staying alert.
✓ Sudden braking or sharp steering.
Keeping your movements smooth and controlled.
Easing off the accelerator gradually.

Abrupt inputs can upset the vehicle further. Smooth control gives the tyres a better chance to regain grip.

Vehicle losing grip on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

241. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Brake-system warning.
Charging-system warning.
Power-steering warning.
✓ Service or maintenance required.

This symbol indicates that the vehicle requires servicing or maintenance. The exact meaning and required maintenance can vary between vehicles, so check the vehicle information display or owner's manual.

Service reminder symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can bridges and overpasses become icy before nearby roads?

242. Why can bridges and overpasses become icy before nearby roads?

Their barriers trap cold air on the road surface.
Road salt is less effective on bridges.
Bridges are always at a higher altitude.
✓ Cold air circulates above and below them.

Bridges lose heat from both their upper and lower surfaces, so they can freeze before roads built directly on the ground.

Icy surface on an exposed bridge
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should you normally wait after a breakdown on a high-speed road?

243. Where should you normally wait after a breakdown on a high-speed road?

Immediately behind the vehicle so you remain visible.
Between the vehicle and the safety barrier.
✓ Behind a safety barrier and well away from the vehicle and traffic.
On the verge beside the broken-down vehicle.

A stationary vehicle can be struck by passing traffic. Waiting behind a barrier provides better protection.

People waiting behind a safety barrier after a breakdown
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space behind a motorcycle?

244. Why should you leave extra space behind a motorcycle?

Motorcycles always travel more slowly than cars.
✓ Motorcycles can slow down quickly and are more vulnerable.
Following closely makes it easier to overtake safely.
Motorcyclists cannot see vehicles directly behind them.

Motorcyclists are more exposed than car drivers. Extra following distance gives you more time to react safely.

Following distance behind a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

245. How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

Immediately after a long or high-speed journey.
Using the maximum pressure shown on the tyre.
✓ When the tyres are cold, using the manufacturer's recommended pressure.
Only by a certified maintenance service.

Tyre pressure rises as tyres become warm. Check them when cold and use the pressure specified on the vehicle label or in the owner's manual.

Checking a vehicle's tyre pressure
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check after fitting a wheel?

246. What should you check after fitting a wheel?

That the wheel can move slightly on the hub.
That the wheel nuts are covered by the trim.
✓ That the wheel nuts are tightened correctly.
That the jack remains partly under the vehicle.

After fitting a wheel, make sure the wheel nuts are tightened correctly using the manufacturer's specified procedure and torque. Incorrectly tightened wheel nuts can loosen or damage the wheel. Recheck them later if the vehicle or wheel manufacturer recommends it.

Checking wheel nuts after fitting a wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle develops a serious fault while driving?

247. What should you do if your vehicle develops a serious fault while driving?

Accelerate to see if the fault disappears.
Switch off the engine before slowing down.
✓ Keep control, reduce speed, and move to a safe place if possible.
Stop immediately in the traffic lane.

Your first priority is to keep control of the vehicle. Reduce speed smoothly and move out of the path of traffic where possible, signalling when appropriate. Avoid harsh steering or braking unless necessary.

Vehicle stopped after developing a mechanical fault
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you reduce speed in fog?

248. Why should you reduce speed in fog?

To prevent moisture from entering the engine.
To prevent the windscreen from misting.
To reduce vehicle emissions.
✓ Because you have less time to react to hazards you cannot see.

Fog can hide obstacles, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Lower speed gives you more time to react.

Fog limiting a driver's view ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if an object falls into the driver's footwell while driving?

249. What should you do if an object falls into the driver's footwell while driving?

Use your foot to push it towards the passenger side.
Brake suddenly so the object moves forwards.
✓ Keep control and stop safely before retrieving it.
Reach down and remove it while continuing to drive.

Do not reach down for an object while driving, as this takes your attention away from the road and can affect vehicle control. If something falls into the driver's footwell, keep control of the vehicle and stop somewhere safe before removing it.

Dropped object close to the driver's pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What may happen when you press the accelerator fully in an automatic vehicle?

250. What may happen when you press the accelerator fully in an automatic vehicle?

✓ The transmission may shift to a lower gear for stronger acceleration.
The transmission selects Park.
The parking brake applies automatically.
The engine switches off.

In many automatic vehicles, pressing the accelerator fully can activate kickdown, causing the transmission to select a lower gear and provide stronger acceleration.

Accelerator-pedal operation for automatic kickdown
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA